Blue jeans are one of the single, most long-lasting fashion trends that have been loved for over a century. They’re ubiquitous in wardrobes across the world, and have ardent fans in everyone from American teenagers to Indian grandmothers. Denim is the single biggest textile type sold in the world—a whopping 1.25 billion pairs of jeans were sold in 2017 alone. Fashion editorials and advertising also deem it essential to stay on top of denim trends. In 2019, the newest cuts and colours include asymmetrical, wide leg, patchwork, pastel and ombre jeans. So it’s safe to say most denim-lovers can easily be tempted into buying one more pair that makes them feel great.

But before you shop your next distressed jeans, do evaluate the stress they’re causing the environment, especially since most of the bulk denim production happens in Asia. The production processes for jeans have a significant impact on our continent, populations, as well as the workers involved in creating them. To get a better understanding of this product and how it is meant to be used, we need to look at its history and cultural significance.

The origins of denim jeans